Memory and Materiality in Conflict Landscapes: Psychological Impact of Spontaneous Memorials in the Russian-Ukrainian War

This project integrates approaches from mental health and conflict archaeology to study the phenomenon of spontaneous/grassroots memorials and their psychological impact. Amid the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian war, spontaneous memorials are created as the primary spaces for bereavement and remembrance. This research explores the potential psychological benefits of such places and the relationship between material culture, memory and counter-memory. Using an interdisciplinary methodology, the study combines structured and non-structured methods, including self-assessment questionnaires, oral interviews along with spatial and material analysis of sites. A longitudinal study design will trace changes in sites conditions, their public perceptions and impact on mental health over time. Citizen science approach will play a central role, encouraging individuals to share personal experiences and examples of how the war has transformed their environments and well-being. These contributions will be featured on a digital platform, functionng as a Digital Museum to document and represent these lived experiences. This study is particularly important as it is being conducted during an ongoing war. Its findings could benefit researchers across various fields studying human responses to war, conflict and trauma recovery.